Drug dependency is a multifaceted issue that affects countless individuals world wide and in the province of Nova Scotia. This thesis examines how drug dependent persons are ‘de-humanized’ within the multifaceted and complex structures of Nova Scotia’s society. It takes a close look at the factors that play a vital role in how individuals end up in their current situation. It analyses how harm reduction programs specifically needle exchange programs in the province of Nova Scotia, foster safe and supportive havens for individuals during their rehabilitation process. The central argument of this thesis is that drug dependent persons need to be re-humanized, and that the programs researched for this thesis play a key role in this process. The key concepts examined in this thesis are: a) rehabilitation; and b) change in mindset. The five themes that are examined under these key concepts include: violation of human rights, determinants of health, social alienation, support, and sense of community. This thesis examines how each of the above themes play a critical role in the lives of drug dependent individuals and examines in depth the role of needle exchange programs in the re-humanizing process.

Rights

The author grants permission to the University Librarian at Acadia University to reproduce, loan or distribute copies of my thesis in microform, paper or electronic formats on a non-profit basis. The author retains the copyright of the thesis.